Could This Be One of the Upcoming Proton EVs?
Geely is gearing up to broaden its Galaxy lineup of new energy vehicles (NEVs) with the introduction of the Galaxy E5, an electric SUV poised to join its sedan counterpart, the E8. The unveiling of this crossover was recently disclosed on China’s ministry of industry and information technology (MIIT) website, signaling an imminent launch that has captured the attention of automotive enthusiasts worldwide.
Geely Galaxy E5, Potentially a New Proton EV Coming to Malaysia Soon
Mirroring the distinctive design language of the Galaxy lineup, the E5 boasts hallmark features such as sleek headlights, a grille-less front fascia, L-shaped bumper corners, flush pop-out door handles, sculpted sides, and full-width taillights. Notably, it showcases the exclusive six-segment rectangular front badge, setting it apart from Geely’s conventional shield-shaped insignia.
According to reports from Autohome, the E5 is anticipated to be equipped with a single 218 PS (160 kW) motor, slightly lower in power compared to its rear-wheel-drive counterpart, the E8, which generates 272 PS (200 kW) and 343 Nm of torque. These specifications align closely with those of the smart #1 Pro and Premium models.
While specifics regarding the battery remain undisclosed, speculations suggest that the E5 may inherit the base E8’s 62 kWh battery pack, offering a commendable range of 550 km on China’s CLTC cycle. Furthermore, it remains uncertain whether the E5 will adopt the E8’s 800-volt electrical architecture, facilitating rapid DC fast charging capabilities ranging between 150 and 360 kW.
A noteworthy revelation indicates that the E5 is poised to become the inaugural global Galaxy model, developed with a focus on right-hand-drive markets from inception. This development raises intriguing prospects for its potential introduction in Malaysia under the Proton brand, considering Geely’s track record of converting models to right-hand drive for the Malaysian market, such as the X70, X50, X90, and S70.
The proposition of a simultaneous development of both right-hand-drive and left-hand-drive variants resonates with Proton CEO Roslan Abdullah’s assertion that the national carmaker’s maiden electric vehicle will be a collaborative effort with Geely, rather than a mere rebadge of an existing model. Moreover, the imminent launch of the E5 in China aligns with Proton’s confirmed timeline for the release of its new electric car in 2025.
However, speculation persists regarding the pricing of the E5, particularly in relation to the Malaysian market. Given its larger dimensions compared to the X70, it is unlikely to fall under the RM100,000 threshold pledged by the government. The E5’s dimensions, measuring 4,615 mm in length, 1,901 mm in width, and 1,670 mm in height, with a 2,750 mm wheelbase, position it closer to the size of the latest sixth-generation Honda CR-V.
Despite the potential pricing challenges, there remains optimism fueled by reports suggesting a price range between 150,000 (RM99,300) and 200,000 yuan (RM132,500). Leveraging the government’s ongoing tax incentives, there is a glimmer of hope that the base model might navigate under the RM100,000 mark, making it an enticing prospect for Malaysian consumers eagerly awaiting the advent of electric mobility.
Pokdepinion: We already know that there will be two Proton EVs coming our way soon, with one being an all-new model. That would likely point towards this one as being the other one but, this is also assuming there won’t be any other new models from Geely anytime soon. If this does come to Malaysia, I would be pretty excited as I really like how it looks.
